India's Ministry of External Affairs issued an urgent travel advisory on Thursday, January 16, 2026, calling on approximately 10,000 Indian nationals currently residing in Iran to leave the country immediately. The advisory comes as civil unrest in Iran continues to escalate, with reports indicating that the death toll from ongoing protests has exceeded 2,500 people.
The emergency advisory urges all Indian citizens in Iran, particularly those in affected urban areas including Tehran, Isfahan, and Shiraz, to make arrangements for immediate departure. The ministry has coordinated with Air India and other carriers to ensure adequate flight capacity for those seeking to leave. Indian nationals are advised to register with the embassy and follow official evacuation guidance.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the media, stating that the safety of Indian citizens abroad remains the government's top priority. He confirmed that the Indian Embassy in Tehran has been working around the clock to assist nationals seeking to evacuate. The ministry has set up 24-hour helplines and is coordinating with Iranian authorities to ensure safe passage for departing citizens.
The unrest in Iran began several weeks ago and has spread to multiple cities across the country. Protests initially sparked by economic grievances have evolved into broader demands for political reform. Iranian security forces have responded with varying degrees of force, leading to significant casualties. International human rights organizations have condemned the violence and called for restraint.
The Indian community in Iran consists primarily of students, professionals, and workers in various sectors. Many have been living in the country for years and have established roots there. The sudden advisory has created challenges for those who must quickly arrange their affairs before departure. The embassy is providing assistance with documentation and travel logistics.
Other countries have issued similar advisories in recent days. The United States, United Kingdom, and several European nations have urged their citizens to leave Iran while commercial flights remain available. Some airlines have already suspended operations to certain Iranian cities due to security concerns, further complicating evacuation efforts.
The Indian government has emphasized that this advisory is a precautionary measure given the unpredictable nature of the situation. Officials have not ruled out organizing special evacuation flights if commercial options become limited. The ministry continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as circumstances evolve.